Don’t Assume Home Insurance Covers Termite Damage Repair
Many homeowners assume their home insurance will cover the costs of repairs caused by termite damage, but in reality, the insurance companies consider the damage termites cause to properties to be preventable, and therefore not covered by their policy. Termite damage can be extensive, costing thousands of dollars in repair work, so it’s essential to call in a professional pest controller at the first sign of infestation. Reputable pest controllers will offer a warranty on their termite work, which will be the closest thing to termite insurance you can find.Termites Only Eat Wood
Most termites in Australia are grass or soil feeders, and only a handful out of more than 350 species found here actually eat wood. However, some species will eat almost anything with cellulose in it, and that includes wood, paper, cotton, clothing and anything derived from plants. If you get these in your house, they can cause significant damage. Even steel-framed houses aren’t safe – termites will find entry points through gaps and cracks and still be able to munch on all the timber they find inside, like skirtings, architraves, door frames and furniture.Don’t DIY It – Get The Pros In!
You will not be able to eradicate termites with a simple spray or solution bought at the local store. Even if you kill off thousands of these insects, the majority of their colony is underground, and they will simply find another spot to attack from – their strength is in their numbers. A qualified pest controller understands the importance of termite behaviour, advanced treatment methods and ongoing monitoring in order to eradicate these powerful pests once and for all!Frequently Asked Questions
Are termites the same as white ants?
No. Termites are not white ants. Black ants belong to the order Hymenoptera, along with bees and wasps, while termites belong to the order Blattodea, along with cockroaches. Their anatomy, behaviours and habits are very different, and they do different jobs in nature, so each needs its own treatment approach.
Does home insurance cover termite damage?
Many homeowners assume it does, but insurance companies consider termite damage to be preventable, so it is generally not covered by the policy. Repairs can cost thousands of dollars, so book a termite inspection at the first sign of activity. A warranty on professional termite work is the closest thing to termite insurance.
Do termites only eat wood?
No. Termites eat anything containing cellulose, including wood, paper, cotton, clothing and anything derived from plants. Many Australian species are grass or soil feeders. Even steel-framed houses are not safe, because termites enter through gaps and cracks and eat timber inside, such as skirtings, architraves, door frames and furniture.
Can I get rid of termites with a spray from the shop?
No. A store-bought spray might kill thousands of termites, but most of the colony is underground and will simply find another spot to attack from. A qualified pest controller understands termite behaviour, advanced treatment methods and the ongoing monitoring needed to eradicate the colony.
Will having black ants protect my home from termites?
No. Ants and termites do different jobs in nature and can coexist without one affecting the other, so black ants around your home will not protect it from termites. Termite colonies can hold over a million termites and are constantly searching for new food sources, so keep up regular inspections.